Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Justice Ekaette Obot
Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Justice Ekaette Obot, has freed 123 inmates from correctional centers across the state after a three-day facility tour.
Sixty-two of the released inmates were freed on health grounds.
The inmates were released from various custodial centers, including four from Ikot Abasi, 17 from Eket, 29 from Ikot Ekpene, and 73 from Uyo custodial center.
The CJ expressed concern over the number of inmates awaiting trial, some without charges or convictions.
She urged prosecutors to ensure timely justice and respect for fundamental rights.
A notable case was Etieno Okon, who spent five years in custody without trial for cultism charges, despite being 15 years old when detained.
The CJ released him and others, charging them to behave and avoid future entanglements.
The Controller of Correctional Centre, Mr. Frank Okonkwo, appealed for support to address challenges like dilapidated facilities and logistics shortages, ensuring better inmate welfare.
He thanked the Chief Judge for her visit and goodwill extended to the custodial centers in the state.
